One’s life experiences can also affect self-neglecting behavior (Lien et al., 2016; Paveza, VandeWeerd, & Laumann, 2008). The two most common experiences cited by individuals with self-neglect are traumatic loss of a loved-one and being a victim of violence (Lien et al ., 2016). Self-neglecting elders may not view themselves as having self-neglect (Day et al., 2016; Kutame, 2007; Bozinovski; 2000). This is true even when they are unable to perform essential tasks required to maintain independence. Individuals with self-neglect see themselves as trying to maintain their identity and control within the limits of failing physical and mental health (Day et al., 2016; Kutame, 2007). In other words, these individuals do not think of their condition as “self-neglect,” instead he or she may think of themselves as “self-care challenged” or “self-care disabled.”

Risk Factors

Self-neglect most often occurs in the elderly, especially in people over the age of 75 (Lauder & Roxburgh, 2012). It can also affect individuals with mental health problems like dementia, and long-standing alcohol abuse (Lee & LoGiudice, 2012). Self-neglect is more often in black, men, and people with low income (Day, Leahy-Warren, & McCarthy, 2016; Mosqueda & Dong, 2011).. Self-neglect occurs more with social isolation, intelligence, and certain personality characteristics (Clark, Mankikar, & Gray, 1975; Macmillan & Shaw, 1966). Self-neglect has no preference for religion or region. It is not known if self-neglect is hereditary.

The following are risk factors for self-neglect:

Old age

Depression

Dementia

Poor memory, poor reasoning

Untreated mental health problems

Long-standing and untreated diseases

Poor diet resulting in low levels of vitamins and minerals

Alcohol and substance abuse

Needing help for routine daily activities, social support, and transportation,

Personality Traits

Some personality traits are associated with the development of elder self-neglect (Dong et al., 2011). Elder self-neglect was described in a 1966 and used the term “senile breakdown syndrome” (Macmillan & Shaw, 1966). A pattern of personality characteristics in self-neglecting elderly was described. Self-neglecting individuals are typically described as unfriendly, stubborn, obstinate, aloof, aggressive, suspicious, secretive, and quarrelsome (Macmillan & Shaw, 1966). These personality traits are viewed as a part of the typical presentation of self-neglect and may be risk factors for developing SN later in life (Macmillan & Shaw, 1966).

Commonly Described Risk Factors

Table 1 provides more details about some of the important risk factors commonly describing self-neglect (Day & Leahy-Warren,2008).